Hastings Lighthouse

Hastings Lighthouse stands on West Hill above the Old Town of Hastings in East Sussex. The white wooden tower, rebuilt in 1851, is a Grade II listed building. It sits at the western edge of the hill with views over the historic fishing quarter. A locked gate prevents entry to the tower itself. The surrounding hilltop is open to visitors and reached by the West Hill Lift cable car. The lighthouse’s red light shines from three elliptical windows under the roof. At 55 metres above sea level, the beam reaches four nautical miles out to sea. The Admiralty lists it as A0858.1 and the NGA as 1168. Its rear light on the seafront is a tall white mast. The site remains an active aid to navigation. Visitors find a short walk from the lift station to the fenced tower. The hilltop offers wide views across Hastings Old Town and the beach. The lighthouse’s simple white form contrasts with the red light that sweeps the Channel. Benches near the fence let people sit and watch ships pass. The breeze carries the sound of the sea and the cries of gulls.